A Richly Figured Walnut & Brass Bound Victorian Writing Slope

Origin: English
Period: Victorian
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1860
Height: 6 inches
Depth: 9 inches
Width: 12 inches
Open Length: 18 inches

Of good proportions, having a brass escutcheon, blank shield to lid, original ink well and key, the writing slope is of beautifully figured walnut with a rich, deep patina. The morocco leather writing-surface hides the two internal compartments for storing stationery, and the boxwood interior includes the removable pen tray. The lock is sound and the baize base is still largely in tact.

Perfect for penning letters to loved ones; writing slopes such as these were an essential part of English nineteenth-century life. Constantly in use, and small enough to be portable (especially in this case), they were the principal instruments of communication before the advent of telephones and computers.

A well-proportioned and tidy box, more compact than the average example, and ideal for those who still appreciate the written word.